Institutional Operations Specialist

Momentum Investments; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 000 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial service provider in South Africa is seeking a Team Leader for investment administration. The role involves managing a high-performing team, overseeing operational strategies, and engaging with stakeholders. Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree, at least 8 years of finance experience, including 5 years in Private Equity administration, and strong communication skills. This role offers significant leadership opportunities and a chance to drive operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in the finance industry, with at least 5 years in Private Equity and Structured Products administration.
• Proficient in investment administration systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate a high-performing team for diverse investment products.
• Oversee execution of operational strategies aligned with organisational goals.
• Serve as primary contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• Support risk identification and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Stakeholder engagement

Process improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree (BCom) or Financial Market Diploma

Tools

Investment administration systems

Excel

Job description

Introduction

Through our client-facing brands and our other specialist brands, Momentum Group enables business and people from all walks of life to achieve their financial goals and life aspirations.

We help people grow their savings, protect what matters to them and invest for the future.

We help companies and organisations care for and reward their employees and members.

Through our own network of advisers or via independent brokers and utilising new platforms Momentum Group provides practical financial solutions for people, communities and businesses.

Disclaimer

As an applicant, please verify the legitimacy of this job advert on our company career page.

Role Purpose

Lead and oversee the administrative support and services for Private Equities, Special Opportunities, Structured Products, Direct Properties, Fund of Hedge Funds, Listed Derivatives, Fixed Income, Securities Lending, and other off‑market investments such as Reinsurance agreements. Drive operational excellence through team leadership, process optimisation, and stakeholder management to support business objectives.

Requirements

Experience and Qualifications: Bachelor's degree (BCom) or Financial Market Diploma preferred (Accounting a must). Minimum 8 years’ experience in the finance industry, with at least 5 years’ in Private Equity and Structured Products administration. Proven experience in process design and improvement. Proficient in investment administration systems and advanced Excel skills. Strong organisational, leadership, and communication skills.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead, motivate, and develop a high‑performing team responsible for administering a diverse portfolio of investment products. Manage team performance, providing coaching, feedback, and development plans to ensure continuous growth and achievement of business objectives. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team. Ensure clear communication of goals, priorities, and deadlines to the team. Identify skill gaps and coordinate relevant training and development initiatives.
• Operational Strategy & Execution: Oversee the execution of operational strategies, plans, policies, and processes aligned with organisational goals. Ensure efficient and accurate administration of Private Equities, Special Opportunities, Structured Products, Fund of Hedge Funds, Direct Properties, Fixed Income, Securities Lending, Listed Derivatives, Reinsurance agreements, and other off‑market investments. Monitor and manage cash, scrip and unit reconciliation clearance activities. Lead participation in change initiatives, process improvements, and project delivery efforts, ensuring seamless transition support where applicable.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Client Service: Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, delivering authoritative advice and expertise on investment administration matters. Build and sustain strong client relationships, ensuring service levels and client expectations are consistently met or exceeded. Drive initiatives to improve client service quality and ensure fair treatment within the area of responsibility. Collaborate across departments to translate business requirements into efficient operational processes and controls.
• Risk, Compliance & Financial Controls: Support risk identification and mitigation efforts, escalating concerns and recommendations through appropriate channels. Manage financial resources and budgets within the team responsibly to optimise operational efficiency and cost effectiveness. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies across all administered investment products.

Competencies Required

• Strong business acumen with the ability to lead and influence teams effectively.
• Demonstrated customer and stakeholder commitment with a client‑centric approach.
• Proven track record of driving results and delivering against targets.
• Leadership in change management and innovation initiatives.
• Excellent collaboration, impact, and influence skills.
• High level of self‑awareness and insight, promoting diversity and inclusiveness.
• Strong organisational and prioritisation capabilities.